Regional

4:46 pm

Sat April 14, 2012

High Wind Havoc In The Region

Fierce winds are kicking up dust across much of southwestern New Mexico and triggering highway closures and health warnings.

The health department in Albuquerque warned people with bronchitis, asthma or other respiratory problems to stay indoors because dust can make their illnesses worse.

Dust clouds kicked up by winds above 50 mph forced the state transportation department to issue warnings for drivers on Interstate 10 between Deming and Lordsburg. The agency's website shows New Mexico 9 from Animas to Columbus closed because of low visibility caused by blowing dust, as are NM 26 from Deming to Hatch and US 180 from Deming to Hurley.

Drivers are being urged to avoid travel or slow down if conditions are bad.